San Diego police release footage of fatal flamethrower confrontation

San Diego police have released bodycam footage of a fatal confrontation on September 16 involving 33-year-old Saul Sandoval Chavez. The incident began in the North Park neighborhood near El Cajon Boulevard and Oregon Street, where officers responded to reports of a man acting violently with a metal rod and attempting to break into vehicles.

Chavez, reportedly armed with a torch lighter and an aerosol container, led officers on a pursuit through the neighborhood before entering the Adult Emporium sex shop. Inside the business, Chavez allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower against law enforcement. Officers deployed bean bag rounds and a police K-9, Ryder, to apprehend him. The suspect reportedly turned the weapon on the dog, causing burns to the animal's face and upper body.

An officer eventually opened fire on Chavez. During the exchange, a shot appeared to strike an aerosol canister held by the suspect, triggering a fireball. Although officers attempted CPR, Chavez died after being transported to a hospital. Three officers sustained burn injuries, and the K-9 was treated at a veterinary hospital. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, the District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the US Attorney’s Office are involved in the investigation.